Blocked Drain FAQ's in Five Dock
What typically causes blocked drains in Five Dock properties?
Blocked drains in Five Dock usually result from tree root intrusion in older terracotta or clay pipes, fat and grease buildup in kitchen lines, or hair and soap scum accumulation in bathroom drains. Many properties in the area date from the Federation and post-war eras, meaning original pipes are vulnerable to root damage from established street trees. We use CCTV camera inspections to identify the exact cause and location before clearing.
How do you clear a drain blockage without damaging the pipes?
We use high-pressure water jetting for most blockages, which fires water at sufficient force to pulverise roots and scour grease from pipe walls without damaging modern PVC or older clay pipes. For metal or plastic foreign objects, we use a mechanical drain snake. The clearing method is selected based on what the CCTV CCTV check reveals, ensuring the safest and most effective outcome for your pipework.
What does the fixed-fee quote include?
The fixed-price quote covers the clearing method, verification testing, and site cleanup, with no hidden fees added at the end. If the CCTV inspection reveals structural damage requiring pipe repair or relining, that's quoted separately with a clear breakdown of what's included. You can decide once scope is finalised, and the price is set by the job, not by the hour.
How quickly can you respond to a drain blockage emergency in Five Dock?
Urgent jobs are sent out first, with the nearest available technician allocated from local dispatch points including West Sydney. We provide ETA updates where possible, and ETA depends on current bookings and traffic conditions. Same-day service is available for all standard drain blockages, and we operate 24/7 for emergencies that involve water backing up or active flooding.
Can tree roots be permanently removed from sewer pipes?
High-pressure water jetting removes existing roots and restores flow, but roots will eventually regrow if the pipe has cracks or joints where they can re-enter. For a permanent solution, pipe relining creates a seamless, root-proof barrier inside the existing pipe without excavation. We explain both options after the CCTV inspection confirms the extent of root intrusion and pipe condition.
What should I do if water is backing up into my shower or toilet?
Stop using all fixtures connected to that drain to prevent further backup, then call us immediately on 1800 349 338 for urgent dispatch. Don't attempt to clear it yourself with chemical cleaners or excessive plunging, as this can worsen the blockage or damage the pipes. We'll locate the restriction, confirm the cause, and restore flow using the safest method for your pipework.
Do you provide documentation for insurance claims or strata records?
Yes, we provide receipts, invoices, and job documentation suitable for landlords, agents, strata managers, and insurance claims where relevant. If the blockage involves common property boundaries or requires strata approval, we can coordinate access and provide the necessary compliance documentation. All work is completed to Australian Standards, and compliance certificates are issued for regulated work where required.
How can I prevent blocked drains in the future?
Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down kitchen sinks; let them cool and dispose of them in the bin instead. Use drain guards to catch hair and food scraps, and only flush toilet paper and human waste. For properties with established trees near sewer lines, regular CCTV inspections can detect early root intrusion before it causes a full blockage. We can schedule annual inspections to monitor pipe condition and address issues early.
What's the difference between a blocked drain and a collapsed pipe?
A blocked drain is a restriction caused by debris, roots, or buildup that can be cleared with jetting or snaking. A collapsed pipe is a pipe collapse where the pipe has broken or caved in, preventing water flow entirely. The CCTV CCTV check shows the difference: blockages can be cleared, but collapsed sections require repair or relining. We explain the findings and provide a fixed quote for the appropriate solution.
Are your plumbers licensed, insured for drainage work?
Yes, all attending technicians are licensed plumbers in NSW (Licence 305428C), and we're properly insured with Public Liability and Workers Compensation. Public Liability covers accidental property damage during work, and Workers Compensation covers workplace injuries on the job. We arrive in uniform, can identify ourselves before entry, and follow all safety and professional standards for drainage work.
